A nurse is caring for a client who has a disposable three-chamber chest tube in place. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing a complication?
Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber
Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber
Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber
Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates an air leak in the chest tube system, which can compromise the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space and impair lung expansion.
Choice B Reason: Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber is normal and expected, as it indicates that air is being removed from the pleural space.
Choice C Reason: Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber are normal and expected, as they reflect changes in intrathoracic pressure during inspiration and expiration.
Choice D Reason: Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber is normal and expected, as it indicates that suction is being applied to the chest tube system.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is correct because an osmotic diuretic, such as mannitol, works by creating an osmotic gradient that draws fluid from the brain tissue into the blood vessels, thereby reducing cerebral edema and intracranial pressure.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because an osmotic diuretic would decrease, not increase, the cell size in the brain by removing fluid from the intracellular space.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because an osmotic diuretic would decrease, not expand, the extracellular fluid volume by increasing the urine output and excreting excess fluid from the body.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because an osmotic diuretic would not provide fluid hydration, but rather cause fluid loss and dehydration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is correct because using log rolling to reposition the client helps maintain the alignment of the head and neck, which prevents further increases in ICP.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because placing a warming blanket on the client can cause vasodilation and increase cerebral blood flow, which can raise ICP.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because instructing the client to cough and deep breathe can increase intrathoracic pressure and impede venous return, which can elevate ICP.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because placing the client in a supine position can decrease cerebral perfusion pressure and increase ICP. The client should be placed in a semi-Fowler's position with the head elevated at 30 degrees.
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